Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Muhammed Matawalle, has firmly countered critics suggesting that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is a liability to Northern Nigeria, describing such claims as unfounded and misleading. Matawalle’s response comes in the wake of comments by former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Babachir Lawal, who questioned Tinubu’s prospects for the 2027 presidential election.
Addressing the issue, Matawalle emphasized that President Tinubu, after just 19 months in office, has made remarkable contributions to all regions, especially the North. He pointed to significant achievements in security, noting that in 2024 alone, security forces neutralized over 8,000 terrorists and bandits, arrested 11,600 criminals, and recovered more than 10,000 weapons. These efforts, according to Matawalle, have led to a substantial improvement in security across the region. He also highlighted the rescue of about 8,000 kidnap victims and the establishment of the Multi-Agency Anti-Kidnap Fusion Cell (MAAKFC) in partnership with the UK’s National Crime Agency, which has enhanced the fight against kidnapping in the North.
Matawalle further cited economic reforms, such as the creation of the Ministry of Livestock Development, aimed at boosting agriculture, empowering women and youths, and transforming rural communities. He noted the recent decline in grain prices as evidence of the administration’s effective agricultural policies. Infrastructure development, including road construction and improved transportation networks, was also mentioned as a testament to Tinubu’s commitment to Northern progress. Additionally, Matawalle praised the signing of local government autonomy into law, which he said would ensure better governance and accountability at the grassroots level.
“The North remains steadfast in its support for President Tinubu. Any insinuation to the contrary is a deliberate attempt to sow discord and undermine our national unity,” Matawalle stated, assuring that the president will receive overwhelming support from the region in 2027. He called on critics to acknowledge the administration’s reforms and urged Northerners to rally behind Tinubu to consolidate on the achievements recorded so far
